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Hospice Care or Elder Care Facility
Notifications
If the deceased was receiving professional care through hospice services or an elder care facility—such as assisted living, memory care, or a nursing home—contact the facility or care provider right away to inform staff and begin any necessary steps related to documentation, discharge, or personal belongings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Process
What should I retrieve from the care facility?
Collect all personal belongings: clothing, toiletries, photos, electronics, medical equipment owned by the deceased (not the facility's), and any important documents kept in the room. Ask the facility for the deceased's medical records—you are entitled to copies. Check the nightstand, closet, and any storage areas. Most facilities request that belongings be retrieved within 48-72 hours, though some allow up to 30 days.
Costs
What about outstanding bills from the facility?
Request a final itemized statement from the facility's billing department. If the deceased had long-term care insurance, file a claim for any covered days. Medicaid-funded stays may have estate recovery claims—the state can seek reimbursement from the estate. If a family member co-signed the admission agreement, they may be personally liable for unpaid charges. Dispute any charges for days after the date of death—facilities sometimes bill through the end of the month.
Legal
How do I properly dispose of the deceased's medications?
Return controlled substances (opioids, benzodiazepines) to the facility's pharmacy or a DEA-authorized collection site—flushing or trashing them may be illegal for controlled substances. The DEA maintains a list of collection sites at deadiversion.usdoj.gov. For non-controlled medications, mix them with coffee grounds or cat litter in a sealed container and place in household trash. Remove personal information from prescription labels before disposal.
Options
Can the facility hold a memorial or remembrance?
Many long-term care facilities are happy to hold a small memorial for residents and staff who knew the deceased. This is especially meaningful for staff caregivers who formed bonds during long stays. Speak with the facility's social worker or activities director to arrange it. Some facilities have a memorial garden, remembrance board, or periodic memorial services for all residents who have passed during a given period.